Manawatu Water Gap EarthCache
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The Manawatu Gorge (in Maori Te Apiti, meaning 'The Narrow Passage') runs between the Ruahine and Tararua Ranges, linking the Manawatu and Hawke's Bay regions.
The Manawatu Gorge is significant because, unlike most gorges, it is a water gap, as the Manawatu River runs directly through the surrounding ranges from one side to the other. This was caused by the ranges moving upwards at the same time as the gorge was eroded by the river, instead of the more usual erosion of an already existing range.
The ranges either side of the Gorge are composed of greywacke, which is thought to be mainly of Triassic age, meaning that they are around 200 to 250 million years old.
The road through the Manawatu Gorge was completed in 1872, and acts as the primary link between the two sides of the lower North Island. It is sometimes closed by slips, especially in inclement weather. A rail connection was also established on the opposite wall of the gorge; it was completed in 1891.
A walking track, the Manawatu Gorge Track, runs parallel to the gorge through native bush. The listed coordinates are a short distance down the track, just before the track crosses underneath the road and goes into the bush.
To claim this earthcache, you must visit the listed co-ordinates, and email the answers to the following questions. DON'T post any answers or spoiler photos in your online log.
1. Looking across to the other side of the gorge, describe the difference in steepness of the gorge wall above and below the railway line and tell me why this diffence has occured.
2. Post a picture clearly showing your GPS, and yourself if you so wish, with the gorge clearly seen in the background. Post this photo on your online log.
Once you have emailed me your answers, you can go ahead and log your find. You don't have to wait for me to reply.
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